The Workers' Detective

A Story About Dr. Alice Hamilton

Dr. Alice Hamilton's accomplishments were many, but one in particular changed her life forever. Working as a social worker in the Chicago slums, Alice noticed that lead factory workers were pale and thin, and some had trouble moving their wrists and hands. Setting out to investigate the cause of their ailments, Alice pioneered a new branch of medicine--industrial medicine. As a doctor, social worker, and fighter for peace, Alice single-handedly changed the world. Because of her many American workers lived longer, healthier lives.